Definition: an early type of large turned foot, with a slightly flattened bulbous shape; often terminates in a platform base; usually found on heavy case pieces, especially of Germanic or Dutch origin; dates from the Renaissance and dwindled after the turn of the 18th century, though some continued use in Dutch-influenced American furniture throughout the 1700s
Also Known As: melon foot, bun foot, ball foot (variations)
Example:
Resting on its sturdy onion feet, the heavy oak cupboard from the Hudson Valley mansion clearly showed its American-Dutch heritage.